Celebrating excellence: The Gordon honours outstanding students

THE Gordon’s talented and inspiring students, apprentices and trainees were celebrated at the 2026 Gordon Excellence Awards last week.

Held at Geelong Arts Centre, the annual awards shine a spotlight on students who have achieved standards of excellence while demonstrating leadership, resilience and a strong commitment to their chosen fields – qualities that define The Gordon’s community of learners.

From more than 12,000 students who studied at The Gordon in 2025, finalists and award recipients represent a diverse collective of individuals who have embraced opportunity, overcome challenges and committed themselves to growth.

Taking out the night’s top honour, Student of the Year, Will Tasic (Certificate III in Barbering) has combined technical skill with personal determination to transform his passion into a career pathway.

Through hands-on learning, Will has built confidence, focus and strong connections with clients and peers, all while demonstrating personal tenacity and resilience.

 

“This course has helped me build real confidence through hands-on skills, while also teaching me focus and time management,” Tasic said. “I’ve grown a lot personally and professionally, and made friendships that will last a lifetime.”

Apprentice of the Year, Simone Brown (Certificate III in Commercial Cookery), is forging her career in one of Melbourne’s leading restaurant kitchens, where she continues to refine her craft in a high-performing, fast-paced environment.

Her journey reflects a deep commitment to learning, teamwork and continuous improvement.

“I enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where every service brings new challenges and opportunities to learn,” Brown said. “The kitchen combines teamwork and creativity in a way that constantly pushes me to improve.”

The Gordon chief people officer and acting chief executive Lisa Barton said the awards celebrate far more than academic success.

“Success doesn’t happen by accident. It starts with a vision – a goal you commit to, a supported environment, an inclusive learning experience,” Barton said. “We celebrate students who have faced challenges, overcome setbacks and kept going. Their success is not just about talent. At the heart of every student is the hope that effort, learning and perseverance will open doors.

 

“These students, apprentices and trainees represent the best of The Gordon, a diverse, talented and determined group of learners who set out to achieve something more. We have worked hard to cultivate a learning environment where every student feels welcomed, supported and empowered.

“To be named a finalist from such a large and diverse student cohort is an outstanding achievement and one that reflects perseverance, skill and commitment. The evening also acknowledged the important role of teachers, mentors, families and employers in supporting student success.”

As graduates move forward, the awards stand as both a celebration and a milestone, recognising not only what has been achieved but the impact these students are ready to make in their industries and communities.

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